In the past they have at times accommodated people who just miss the deadline. I have the imperial but I never use the scale to be honest- I use it merely as a layout square and for checking for square.
The 26" rules for sheets goods. I have both but reach for the 26" most of the time. I bought the metric version even though I work in imperial just to add some metric capability to my measuring tools. But I really don't use that type of square to measure.
I went through the same battle last night. I decided on the 26" square, i have the 18" triangle, this way i will finish off the set with the 12" square and the 6" carpenters square and have a complete range of sizes
if you can only have one than i would say go with the 26" as it will do things the 18 wont then you can always get the 12" (1281) square they offer year round for smaller work.
i too wasnt sure about metric or imperial, i like the idea of switching to metric for things like cabinets/builtins but i really cant see myself making a full switch in everything i do (additions and remodeling). like others have said above, you really arent going to use the scales on these squares for actual marking (maybe getting you in the ballpark) so i went with imperial as its what i know best.
something like the Woodpeckers woodworking rules are where metric or imperial is going to matter more, i say get the scale you are most likely to use more often first and then purchase one or two of your most used sizes of rules in the other measurement scale as you need them.
The markings on the square dont go down the edge of the squares and the Alli is pretty thick so to even use the measurements accurately isnt that easy any way hence why I dont really use the measurements on mine. More to just give you an idea.
gonna agree with Bob on this one, for aligning the mft there is no right or wrong one. the guide rail and fence are so straight on the mft that either square is plenty long enough to give you accurate results. obviously, having the bigger one in this situation wouldnt hurt but its not necessary.
the 26 is really going to shine when marking out square lines on sheet goods ~24" wide for cabinet work
Woodpeckers is like Festool.. your only going to be concerned with the price until you have it in your hand using it.. then your so blown away by the quality and beauty of their tools that you quickly forget about the price. Your gonna be happy with either one you get!
Thanks to everyone for the advice. I was still able to order the 26" online yesterday. i like the fact that you don't have to pay until it ships in December, wish other companies did the same thing.
I got a 18" 3 days after the deadline
I have 16 of the all aluminum red corner clamps I love those things
any of the Woodpecker stuff is much like Festool as soon it's in your hand your glad you bought from them .
If I had more funds I'd buy every one of the special limited issue tools [tongue]
Yeah I just sent a begging request to WoodPeckers in a email to PLEASE let me add a 26" Square to my order of the 18" I had ordered days ago .
I knew I was choosing wrong at just the 18" & then thought it's best for me to have both 18" & the 26" .
Hopefully they add to my order [thumbs up] [popcorn]